This time there won't be the livestock exhibits..but there will be the carnival, rides, arts and crafts, and plenty of food.

There will also be evening concerts featuring big name acts such as gospel singer Mary Mary, the band Tierra, and American Idol winner, Ruben Studdard.

Fair Director Kelly Olds said a private promoter is assuming all the risk, but sharing the revenue with the fair.

"The promoter is bringing in some pretty good entertainment, mentioned that we would be doing a fireworks display on 4th of July, so I think he is optimistic that he's going to draw a pretty good attendance, he's saying anywhere from 100-150,000 people."

The promoter Next Level Concert Group also handles the tours of Justin Timberlake and Beyonce.

Admission to the fair will be $15 for adults, but nightly concerts would cost an additional $25.

As the Central Valley correspondent, Rich Ibarra covers San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Merced counties, along with the foothill areas including Tuolumne and Calaveras counties. He covers politics, the economy and issues affecting the region. Read Full Bio